It’s amazing what Viagra can do for older men, making impotency a thing of the past. Older men can once again perform in bed. Unfortunately, this spells concerns for these older men’s lady companions. As women age, their vaginal tissues become dry due to their waning hormones. Unless they get hormone supplements or get regular sexual stimulation, their vagina will become fragile. As a result, having sex all of a sudden can be painful and harsh.

During their childbearing years, women produce estrogen. This hormone makes the vaginal tissues pink, moist and flexible. As the years go by and menopause sets in, the production of estrogen declines. With her estrogen levels declining, a woman’s vaginal tissues will become dry and pale and could easily tear and bleed.

Amy S. D. Lee, MS, WHCRNP, suggests these tips on how to keep the vaginal tissues healthy, flexible and moist.

Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or using a vaginal cream, pill or ring that delivers estrogen to the vagina can help prevent its tissues from drying.

Use lubricants to help moisten the vaginal tissues.

Regular sexual stimulation, intercourse or activity can also keep the vagina moist, flexible and healthy.

Ms. Lee relates that a lot of women had bad vaginal lacerations due to sudden sex after a long period of hiatus. She stresses that it is important to consult a healthcare provider before indulging in sex after a long abstinence. For starters, she also recommends using vaginal estrogen to prepare the body for a renewed sexual engagement.

She adds that it is important to take it slowly at first, use lubricant as may be necessary and stop if it becomes too painful.